Translation and Meaning of: ご苦労様 - gokurousama

If you have ever come into contact with the Japanese language, you have probably encountered the expression ご苦労様 (ごくろうさま). This word, loaded with cultural significance, is often used in Japan to acknowledge someone's effort. But what exactly does it mean? How and when should it be used? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts of use of this expression so present in Japanese daily life.

Meaning and translation of ご苦労様

The expression ご苦労様 (ごくろうさま) can be approximately translated as "thank you for your work" or "congratulations on your effort." It is used to thank or acknowledge someone's hard work, especially in professional contexts or situations where there has been dedication. Unlike ありがとう (arigatou), which is a more general expression of thanks, ご苦労様 carries a tone of appreciation for the ongoing effort.

It is worth noting that, although it is a common expression, its use requires some caution. In Japan, social hierarchy is important, and ご苦労様 is more often directed at people of equal or lower status. For superiors, it is more appropriate to use お疲れ様でした (おつかれさまでした), which conveys additional respect.

Origin and Cultural Context

The origin of ご苦労様 dates back to the Edo period when the term 苦労 (くろう) was already used to refer to difficulties and efforts. The honorific prefix ご (go) was added to soften and refine the expression, transforming it into a form of respectful acknowledgment. Over the years, it has become an educated way to thank someone for their work done.

In Japan, recognizing the efforts of others is a deeply rooted value. Companies, schools, and even social groups use ご苦労様 to strengthen bonds and demonstrate gratitude. In the workplace, for instance, it is common to hear it at the end of the workday or after the completion of an important project. This practice reflects the importance of cooperation and mutual respect in Japanese culture.

When and how to use ご苦労様

To use ご苦労様 correctly, it's essential to consider the context and the relationship between the people involved. As mentioned, it is more suitable for colleagues, subordinates, or people with whom you have a close relationship. In formal situations or when speaking with superiors, opt for お疲れ様でした to avoid any potential disrespect.

In addition to the professional environment, ご苦労様 can also be used in everyday situations, such as when someone undertakes a difficult task or helps at an event. For example, if a friend spends the day helping you move, saying ご苦労様です (ごくろうさまです) is a warm way to thank them for their effort. The flexibility of the expression makes it useful in various scenarios, as long as it is applied with sensitivity.

Trivia and memorization tips

An effective way to memorize ご苦労様 is to associate it with real situations where effort is recognized. Think of moments when someone deserves a "thank you for your hard work" and use the expression in those contexts. Repeating it mentally or aloud also helps to fix the vocabulary.

Interestingly, in some regional dialects of Japan, such as that of Osaka, ご苦労様 can be replaced by local variations, but its central meaning remains the same. Another tip is to observe the use of the expression in Japanese dramas or animes, where it frequently appears in everyday dialogues. This cultural immersion simplifies the understanding and correct usage of the word.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• お疲れ様 (Otsukaresama) - Good job; Expression of gratitude for the effort.
• お疲れさん (Otsukaresan) - Casual variant of お疲れ様; used among friends.
• お疲れ (Otsukare) - Forma mais curta e informal de お疲れ様 é お疲れ.
• ご苦労さん (Gokurousan) - Casual variant of ご苦労様; often used among colleagues.
• ご苦労 (Gokuro) - Forma curta e informal de ご苦労様.
• お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) - Used to recognize the effort after completing a task.
• お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) - Polite and respectful way to acknowledge the effort.
• お疲れ様でしたね (Otsukaresama deshita ne) - Recognition of effort, with a friendlier tone.
• お疲れ様ですね (Otsukaresama desu ne) - Informal and friendly recognition of effort.
• ご苦労様でした (Gokurousama deshita) - Respectful or formal recognition for the effort made.
• ご苦労様です (Gokurousama desu) - A polite way to acknowledge effort; less common than お疲れ様.
• ご苦労様でしたね (Gokurousama deshita ne) - Friendly and respectful expression of gratitude after the completion of an activity.
• ご苦労様ですね (Gokurousama desu ne) - Informal and friendly variation of gratitude.

ご苦労様

Romaji: gokurousama
Kana: ごくろうさま
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Thank you very much for your ....

Meaning in English: Thank you very much for your....

Definition: Words used for general greetings.

Example Sentences - (ご苦労様) gokurousama

See below some example sentences:

ご苦労様です。

Gokurousama desu

It means "Thank you for your hard work." It is a common expression used to thank someone for their effort or work done.

Thank you for your hard work.

• ご - Japanese honorific prefix
• 苦労 - hard work, difficulty
• 様 - Japanese honorific suffix
• です - Verb "to be" in the present tense